Smart Wealth and Retirement

The Retirement Tax Window: Preparing for 2025 Filing and Planning Ahead for 2026

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down key tax planning considerations for retirees coming out of 2025 and heading into 2026.

Jim and Casey discuss why taxes remain one of the biggest — and most controllable — risks in retirement. They cover topics such as changing tax brackets, required minimum distributions (RMDs), Roth strategies, capital gains planning, and how proactive tax decisions can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Rather than focusing on predictions, this episode emphasizes flexibility, planning, and awareness, helping retirees and pre-retirees understand where opportunities and pitfalls may exist in the coming years.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why tax planning matters more in retirement
01:36 – Why retirees need to think differently about taxes
03:02 – Current tax brackets and why future changes matter
04:56 – The role of RMDs in retirement tax planning
06:42 – Roth conversions: when they make sense (and when they don’t)
08:34 – Managing taxable vs. tax-deferred accounts
10:18 – Capital gains planning and investment taxation
12:04 – How Social Security benefits are taxed
13:52 – Medicare premiums and tax-related surcharges
15:24 – Coordinating income sources to reduce tax drag
17:06 – Common tax planning mistakes retirees make
18:56 – Action steps to consider for 2025–2026
20:24 – Final thoughts and closing

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Do You Really Need a Financial Advisor? Here’s How to Decide

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisor and retirement planner Jim Martin of Martin Wealth Solutions is joined by special guest Linwood Fraher to tackle a common question many investors and retirees wrestle with: When does it make sense to hire a financial advisor?

Jim and Linwood discuss the moments in life when DIY investing can become risky — such as major life transitions, retirement planning, tax complexity, or managing emotions during volatile markets. They explain what a good advisor actually does beyond picking investments, how fiduciary advice differs from sales-driven guidance, and how working with the right advisor can bring clarity, confidence, and coordination to your entire financial life.

Whether you’re managing things on your own or already working with an advisor, this episode helps you evaluate when professional guidance can add real value.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: The question of hiring an advisor
00:49 – Meet Jim Martin & special guest Linwood Fraher
01:44 – Why so many people try to manage finances on their own
03:18 – Life events that often trigger the need for advice
05:06 – Retirement planning complexity vs. DIY investing
06:58 – Taxes, income planning, and coordination challenges
08:52 – Emotional decision-making and market volatility
10:46 – What a good financial advisor actually does
12:34 – Fiduciary advice vs. product-driven sales
14:28 – How an advisor adds value beyond investments
16:22 – Signs it may be time to get professional help
18:20 – Questions to ask before hiring an advisor
20:16 – Red flags to watch out for
22:18 – Key takeaways and next steps

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Retiring Before 60: What It Really Takes to Make It Happen

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down what it truly takes to retire before age 60 — and why it’s more about planning and discipline than luck or extreme investing.

Jim and Casey discuss the key building blocks of early retirement, including savings rates, tax strategy, healthcare planning, income flexibility, and lifestyle design. They also address common misconceptions about retiring early, the trade-offs involved, and how to build a plan that supports long-term sustainability rather than short-term freedom.

Whether early retirement is a firm goal or simply a possibility you want to keep open, this episode provides a realistic framework to help you decide if retiring before 60 is achievable — and what steps to take next.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why retiring before 60 appeals to so many people
01:38 – What “retiring before 60” really means
03:06 – The biggest misconceptions about early retirement
05:02 – Savings rate vs. rate of return
06:58 – Tax strategy and account positioning
08:56 – Healthcare planning before Medicare
10:48 – Income flexibility and withdrawal planning
12:42 – Lifestyle expectations and trade-offs
14:28 – How early retirement changes risk management
16:16 – Common mistakes early retirees make
18:06 – Key questions to ask if early retirement is your goal
20:01 – Final thoughts and encouragement

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Caring for Aging Parents Without Sacrificing Your Retirement

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the growing reality many families face: supporting aging parents while protecting your own retirement plan.

Jim and Casey walk through the emotional, financial, and logistical challenges that arise when parents begin needing help. They cover how to start difficult conversations, understand care options, coordinate finances, and avoid common mistakes that can strain relationships and derail long-term plans. The conversation offers practical guidance for navigating caregiving responsibilities with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: When caring for parents becomes part of your plan
02:02 – Why more families are facing caregiving decisions
03:34 – The emotional impact of helping aging parents
05:22 – Starting the conversation with Mom & Dad
07:14 – Understanding care options: in-home, assisted living, and beyond
09:26 – Financial considerations families often overlook
11:42 – Coordinating siblings and shared responsibilities
13:58 – How caregiving can affect your own retirement goals
16:04 – Planning ahead to avoid crisis-driven decisions
18:22 – Legal and documentation considerations
20:14 – When professional help may be needed
22:06 – Common mistakes families make
24:10 – Key takeaways for caregivers and planners

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

When One Spouse Is Ready to Retire — and the Other Isn’t

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions tackle a sensitive — but very common — retirement challenge: when one spouse is ready to retire and the other isn’t.

Jim and Casey discuss why this situation happens more often than people expect and how differences in identity, purpose, finances, and timing can create tension. They explore the emotional and practical considerations behind staggered retirements, how income planning changes when only one spouse stops working, and why communication and clarity are critical before making any big decisions.

If you or your spouse are approaching retirement and feeling unsure about taking that step together, this episode offers thoughtful guidance to help couples move forward with confidence and alignment.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: When retirement timing isn’t aligned
01:46 – Why this issue comes up so often with couples
03:12 – Emotional reasons one spouse may not want to retire
05:08 – Identity, purpose, and work beyond the paycheck
07:06 – Financial concerns behind staggered retirements
09:02 – How income planning changes when one spouse retires
11:14 – Social Security and benefit timing considerations
13:06 – Communication mistakes couples often make
15:02 – How to start the retirement conversation productively
17:04 – Planning options when spouses retire at different times
19:10 – Real-life client examples and lessons learned
21:12 – Final thoughts and closing

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

7 Retirement Investment Myths That Could Cost You

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions take on some of the most common — and dangerous — investment myths that can derail retirement plans.

Jim and Casey break down widely held beliefs about risk, market timing, diversification, income investing, and “playing it safe” in retirement. They explain why these myths persist, how they can quietly hurt long-term outcomes, and what a smarter, more disciplined investment approach looks like as you near or enter retirement.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about how to invest once retirement is on the horizon, this episode provides clarity and perspective to help you make confident, informed decisions.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why retirement investment myths are so common
01:42 – Why misinformation spreads in investing
02:10 – Myth #1: “The Stock Market is too risky in retirement”
05:03 – Myth #2: “Bond are always safe”
06:03 – Myth #3: “You can just live off dividends and interest”
08:34 – Myth #4: “Can you time the Market?”
10:12 – Myth #5: “Past performance predicts future results”
12:20 – Myth #6: “Fees don't matter if performance is good”
13:48 – Myth #7: “You don't need professional help - You can do it yourself”
16:40 – How to protect yourself from investment myths
21:06 – What smart investing really looks like in retirement
23:10 – Key takeaways and final thoughts

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Should You Own Bonds in Retirement? Here’s What to Know

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down one of the most confusing — yet essential — components of retirement planning: bonds.

Jim and Casey explain what bonds are, how they generate income, and why they behave differently from stocks. They dig into interest rates, bond ladders, risk vs. reward, and why bonds can either stabilize a retirement portfolio or hold it back depending on how they're used.

Whether you're already retired or planning ahead, this episode clarifies the role bonds should play in your long-term income plan — especially in today’s evolving interest-rate environment.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why bonds matter in retirement
01:36 – What exactly is a bond?
02:58 – How bonds generate income
04:26 – Why bonds behave differently from stocks
05:58 – Interest rates and how they affect bond values
07:46 – The role bonds play in stabilizing a retirement portfolio
09:30 – When bonds can actually hurt your retirement plan
11:12 – Understanding bond duration and risk
12:58 – The pros and cons of bond ladders
14:40 – How to know if you have the right amount of bonds
16:12 – Bonds vs. CDs vs. annuities — what’s the difference?
17:48 – Practical tips for building a bond strategy

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

The Biggest Retirement Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down some of the most common — and costly — mistakes people make leading up to and during retirement.

From emotional investing and improper risk management to underestimating taxes, Social Security timing, and overspending early in retirement, Jim and Casey explain why these issues show up so often… and what you can do to stay clear of them.

They share real-world client experiences, discuss the habits that lead to long-term success, and offer practical steps to help retirees and pre-retirees avoid unnecessary stress, poor decisions, and financial regret.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why retirement mistakes happen
03:05 – Mistake #1: Overspending early in retirement
06:14 – Mistake #2: Not having a written plan
08:10 – Mistake #3: Not investing your age
10:34 – Mistake #4: Working longer than you really needed to
13:29 – Mistake #5: Ignoring taxes until it's too late
14:23 – Mistake #6: Delaying big decisions
16:50 – Mistake #7: Not reaching out to our team 
17:40 – Q&A with Casey
20:45 – Key takeaways & closing thoughts

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Staying Sane in a Nervous Market: How Smart Investors Keep Their Cool

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions talk through one of the biggest emotional challenges retirees face: staying calm during market volatility.

Jim and Casey unpack why markets feel so unpredictable, the psychological traps investors often fall into, and the practical steps you can take to keep your financial plan on track when headlines turn scary. They also share real client experiences, lessons learned from previous downturns, and the mindset shifts that help long-term investors stay confident rather than reactive.

Whether you're retired or nearing retirement, this episode provides clarity and reassurance for navigating uncertain times with a steady hand.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why markets feel more “nervous” lately
02:04 – What a “nervous market” really means
03:30 – Why volatility feels worse than it actually is
05:22 – Emotional traps investors fall into
07:10 – Recency bias, fear, and market overreactions
09:18 – What history tells us about volatile periods
11:26 – How long-term investors can stay grounded
13:14 – Building a plan that can weather any market
15:06 – Why staying invested matters more than timing
17:20 – Real client stories from past downturns
19:02 – Practical steps to stay calm and make smart decisions
21:18 – How to evaluate your portfolio during volatility
22:42 – Final thoughts and encouragement

---

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

Your 10-Step Year-End Financial Checklist

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions walk through a practical, easy-to-follow year-end financial checklist to help you finish the year strong and set up a successful year ahead.

Jim and Casey cover ten items every household should review before December 31st — They explain why each step matters, what most people overlook, and how small adjustments now can make a big impact on your long-term retirement plan.

Whether you’re nearing retirement or still building toward it, this is a simple and actionable guide to making sure your financial life is aligned and prepared for the coming year.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

---

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why year-end planning matters

01:34 – What to review before December 31

03:18 – Checklist Item #1: Review your tax situation

04:24 – Checklist Item #2: Take your RMDs

05:06 – Checklist Item #3: Maximize retirement contributions

05:56 – Checklist Item #4: Harvest gains & losses wisely

07:20 – Checklist Item #5: Give strategically 

08:15 – Checklist Item #6: Review your portfolio & rebalance

09:05 – Checklist Item #7: Check beneficiaries & estate documents

10:10 – Checklist Item #8: Review your insurance coverage

10:45 – Checklist Item #9: Review long-term care insurance

11:05 – Checklist Item #10: Set next year's financial goals

13:10 – Q&A with Casey

15:25 – Final thoughts & takeaways

---

Disclaimer:

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.